Robert M. "Sid" Carlson

NORTHWOOD - Robert M. "Sid" Carlson, of Northwood, N.H., (formerly of Barrington, N.H., Stoneham, Mass., and Woburn, Mass.) passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, August 18, 2016. Beloved husband of Norma (Richardson) for 55 years. Devoted father of Pamela Ganem and her husband, John, of Exeter, N.H., and Gary Carlson and his wife, Judy, of Northwood, N.H. Proud grandfather of Ryan, Justine, Derek, Sean and Jared, and great-grandfather of Mackenzie. Loving uncle, cousin and friend.

Predeceased by his parents, Greta and Albert Carlson, and his seven siblings: Helen, Doris, Edie, Eddie, Eleanor, Donald and Jean.

Known by his many names: Bobby, Robert, Uncle Bobby, Uncle Bob and the Gov, Sid's early career began as a barber in Woburn Square, a Navy reservist and a Stoneham police officer. He then trained at the Massachusetts State Police Academy and earned rank of Sergeant; during his tenure he was special aide to Governor Frank Sargent. After his retirement, he created Carlson Detective Agency and remained an active private detective until his passing.

Above all, he was a devoted and dedicated family man. The youngest of eight, he transmitted his ingrained "children learn what they live" motto to his children, grandchildren, great-grandchild and his extended family of many nieces and nephews. He organized yearly reunions and holiday get-togethers as well as co-hosted with his loving Norma years of Christmas Eve gatherings and summer flockings to Nippo Lake, Barrington.

With Norma and friends, he founded Suburban Special Needs Committee, enlightening children and young adults with developmental delays with yearly "proms" and visits from the likes of "Killer" Kowalski (wrestler) among others, who became endeared friends. He has been a member of the Barrington American Legion and for 26 years proudly carried the American Flag in the color guard in the Barrington Memorial Day Parade. He and Norma have been presiding members over the Barrington Historical Society for over 20 years.

Over the past 12 years he and Norma have wintered in Myrtle Beach, S.C. They became the Activities Coordinators of the Sandcastle South Snowbirds, planning excursions, daily adventures and fostering friendships.

We struggle with the sudden loss of our beloved Husband, Dad, Papa, Sid, Bobby, Robert, Governor. He has touched thousands of hearts with his unselfish, infectious personality, funny poolside pranks, joke gadgets and "when I was with the Governor" stories. We are forever blessed to have crossed his path in this lifetime. You are missed...

SERVICES: Friends and family may call from 4-7 p.m., on Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2016, at Purdy Memorial Chapel, 2 Concord Rd., Rte 4, Lee, N.H., 03861. Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., on Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2016, at Purdy Memorial Chapel with Rev. Miram Tirabassi, officiating with burial to follow at Pine Grove Cemetery in Northwood, N.H.

To sign our online guestbook, please go to www.purdyfuneralservice.com.